The Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014, built in 1941, is scheduled to stop in Ripley June 9.

RIPLEY — The world’s largest operating steam locomotive will visit Tuesday.

The Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014, built in 1941, is on a 14-state round-trip tour as part of celebrations for the United States’ 250th anniversary.

Union Pacific is collaborating with Norfolk Southern on the tour. The eastern portion of the tour is on Norfolk Southern tracks and the railroad has offered a historic passenger car from its Heritage fleet, along with commemorative locomotives, for Big Boy’s tour.

The train is currently headed eastbound to Philadelphia and was in Boone, Iowa, Monday morning at the time of writing. It’s scheduled to make a 10-minute whistle stop in North East late in the morning of Tuesday before a short haul up the tracks to Ripley.

The Ripley stop is set for the State Street crossing. Big Boy is scheduled to arrive at noon on Tuesday, then depart for Buffalo at 12:30 p.m. The train will be on public display in Buffalo on June 10 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

“This is an extraordinary opportunity for Chautauqua County and the Town of Ripley to be part of a truly historic national celebration,” said Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. “Big Boy No. 4014 represents not only the innovation and determination that helped build America, but also the enduring spirit of our nation as we approach the 250th anniversary of the United States. We are proud to welcome visitors from near and far to experience this incredible event right here in Chautauqua County.”

Officials anticipate a large turnout of rail enthusiasts, families, photographers, and visitors hoping to witness the massive locomotive in action. County and local leaders are urging the public to prioritize safety and plan ahead for travel delays and increased traffic in the Ripley area.

“We are thrilled to welcome Big Boy No. 4014 to Ripley and look forward to sharing this historic moment with our community and visitors alike,” said Ripley Supervisor Dr. Lauree Pless. “At the same time, we ask everyone attending to remain patient, follow posted detours and parking instructions, and respect any temporary street closures so the event remains safe and enjoyable for all.”

Motorists and visitors are encouraged to allow extra travel time when arriving and departing, follow all posted traffic detours, obey local law enforcement and emergency personnel, and remain aware of changing traffic patterns throughout the day.

“Public safety remains our top priority as we prepare for what is expected to be a very busy and exciting event,” said Noel Guttman, Chautauqua County Director of Emergency Services. “We encourage attendees to plan ahead, stay alert, and monitor updates from Chautauqua County Government and the Town of Ripley leading up to the train’s arrival. By working together and following traffic and safety guidance, we can help ensure everyone has a safe experience.”

Chautauqua County officials also encourage attendees to remain on public property, avoid standing on railroad tracks or restricted areas, and supervise children closely while viewing the train. Additional event updates, traffic information, and public safety notices will be shared by Chautauqua County Government and the Town of Ripley through official communication channels and social media platforms.

Originally delivered to Union Pacific Railroad in 1941, Big Boy No. 4014 is the largest operating steam locomotive in the world. The locomotive was restored to operation in 2019 and now serves as a traveling ambassador for railroad history and American innovation. For additional information, including the full tour schedule and updates from Union Pacific, visit www.up.com/about-us/history/steam/schedule.

Big Boy will then dip south, with a stop at Letchworth State Park June 11. It is scheduled to stop in various places such as Hornell, Owego, and Scranton on its way to Philly. Big Boy will have a lengthy layover in Scranton, between June 15-July 1, due to scheduled maintenance.

After a Fourth of July weekend display in the City of Brotherly Love, Big Boy will turn around and head back west through Pennsylvania. The closest it will be to Chautauqua County on that run is a July 13 stop in Conneaut, Ohio, with no public access scheduled.

Big Boy’s tour will conclude July 29 in Cheyenne, Wyoming. That’s where it started on May 25.